Cards, Videos Flood in to Oregon Veterans’ Homes

While Americans adjust to the new realities brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, some are reaching out to the residents of the Oregon Veterans’ Homes in Lebanon and The Dalles to assure them they are appreciated, cared for and remembered.

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs calls it “Operation Well Wish,” and the well wishes have flooded in from all over. Many have sent letters, postcards, pictures and artwork, which are cleared by the Home’s infection prevention team before being shared with residents.

Others have sent in videos, and they have come in from Virginia, Ohio, Texas, North Carolina, Hawaii and even as far as Italy. These videos are being played for residents on the Homes’ closed-circuit TV channel.

Some have included their children or pets. Others have shown video footage from their favorite places in nature at their hometowns. Some have sung their favorite songs or recited poetry.

“With the lock-down protocols that are currently in place to keep our community safe, it has been a tremendous change in the residents’ way of life,” said ODVA Director Kelly Fitzpatrick. “These men and women at our Lebanon Veterans’ Home have borne the battles to keep this nation safe and free. It’s wonderful for so many of the people that they have protected to be remembering them in this challenging time.”

Lebanon Veterans’ Home Program Director Jeremy Woodall said they have been a huge boost to both residents and staff.

“Seeing the smiles and songs and well-wishes come in from literally around the world has lifted their spirits,” he said. “Young children, men and women, veterans and civilians… everyone has a chance to share love and hope to others in this time.”

If you would like to be part of Operation Well Wish, please send your cards, letters or other materials in an unlicked envelope to ATTN: Operation Well Wish, Oregon Veterans’ Home, 600 N. 5th St., Lebanon, OR 97355.

Videos may be sent to ODVAInformation@odva.state.or.us.